If looks are anything to go by, Simon Zahra believes Rough Justice is poised to run another big race in the Hareeba Stakes.
“The horse looks absolutely fantastic,” Zahra said.
“I reckon it’s nearly the best he’s looked all preparation.”
Rough Justice won the $70,000 VOBIS Gold Eldorado at Wangaratta last start to record his third win from six runs this preparation.
He has barrier four in Saturday’s Listed sprint at Mornington and Zahra believes dropping back to 1300m to 1200m from his hard-fought win three weeks ago is a bonus more than a hindrance.
“He’s going really well and his win the other day was probably workmanlike,” Zahra said.
“I’m not quite sure whether he relished the 1300 metres, and the track might have been a touch firm for him but he’s had a nice time in between runs.
“He’s going well and he gives you everything, so he’s in with a huge chance.”
The Hareeba Stakes has attracted a full field of 15 plus four emergencies with Group One winner Smokin’ Joey topweight with 60kg while in-form Reldas is the $4.50 favourite but has to contend with the widest barrier.
Reldas’ trainer Robert Smerdon won the race last year with Under The Louvre who produced a big finish and Reldas might have to do likewise.
Reldas was fifth in the Group One Oakleigh Plate before a Listed win in the Abell Stakes at Moonee Valley.
First emergency Meursault, who has gained a start after the scratching of General Jackson, is on the second line of betting at $4.80 ahead of Thermal Current at $6.
Rough Justice is at $11.
